Good morning. Thanks for the privilege of standing in this sacred place. Today we embark on a journey into the Old Testament, specifically the book of Joshua, chapter 7. This chapter unfolds a story of triumph, tragedy, and most importantly, the consequences of disobedience. We encounter a man named Achan whose actions serve as a warning to us all. Let us delve into this narrative under three distinct points: Achan Takin, Achan Fakin, and Achan Bakin.
Heavenly Father, as we gather here today, we ask for your guidance and wisdom as we study the story of Achan from the book of Joshua. Help us to understand the lessons hidden within these words and to apply them to our lives today. Amen.
First of all let’s consider Achan Takin.
The story of Achan begins with the victorious conquest of Jericho. The walls fell, the city was taken, and the Israelites were jubilant in their triumph. But amidst the spoils of war, there was a commandment from the Lord: “The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord.”
However, Achan’s heart was swayed by temptation. He saw among the plunder a beautiful robe, two hundred shekels of silver, and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels. His eyes lusted after these treasures, and he took them for himself, disregarding the commandment of the Lord and the welfare of his fellow Israelites.
How often do we find ourselves in situations where the allure of worldly possessions clouds our judgment? Achan’s story serves as a stark reminder that disobedience to God’s commandments, especially for the sake of personal gain, ultimately leads to destruction. Every Sunday in churches around the world we can witness people taking what is to be devoted to the Lord. Granted that the things in Ai were devoted to God for destruction, but they were devoted to God none the less. The Bible reminds us that as Christians our tithe is devoted to God and sadly there are so many who use HIS tithe for personal gain. Did you notice that the entire nation of Israel was defeated because of this one man’s sin? Could this also be the reason that so many Christians are living defeated lives?
Now let’s look at Achan Fakin.
After Achan’s disobedience, the Israelites suffered a devastating defeat at the hands of the small city of Ai. Joshua, perplexed by this defeat, fell on his face before the Lord, seeking guidance. And the Lord revealed to Joshua the cause of their defeat: there was sin in the camp.
Achan had not only taken what was devoted to the Lord but had also attempted to conceal his sin. He had hidden the stolen items in the ground beneath his tent, hoping that no one would ever discover his transgression. But as the Bible says in Numbers 32:23, “Be sure your sin will find you out.”
Let’s not fall into the trap of thinking we can hide our sins from God. Just as Achan’s sin was brought to light, so too will ours be exposed. Let us instead humble ourselves before the Lord, confess our sins, and seek His forgiveness and mercy. We can lie to ourselves, we can lie to others, but we can never lie to God. He always knows the truth.
Finally, Let’s look at Achan Bakin
As punishment for his disobedience, Achan and his family faced the consequences of his actions. They were stoned to death and their bodies burned with fire. It’s a sobering and harsh reality, but it highlights the seriousness of sin in the eyes of a holy God. Sinners who never repent and come to a saving relationship with Jesus face the same punishment. Doomed to what the Bible calls the Lake of Fire or Hell.
But even in this grim tale, there is a glimmer of hope. The Lord, in His mercy, allowed the Israelites to learn from Achan’s mistake and to move forward in obedience. They purged the sin from their midst and once again found favor in the eyes of the Lord. I am so thankful that The Lord made it possible for me to be forgiven for my sins and escape the punishment of hell. All I have to do is accept this free gift and begin a daily personal relationship with Jesus. What a Savior!
Conclusion:
As we conclude, let us reflect on the lessons we can glean from the story of Achan. Let us guard our hearts against the temptation to take what is not rightfully ours, knowing that disobedience only leads to destruction. Let us not deceive ourselves into thinking we can hide our sins from God, but instead, let us confess them openly and seek His forgiveness. And let us remember that even amid judgment, there is mercy for those who humble themselves before the Lord. How is your relationship with Jesus? Today would be a great day to examine your walk with Him and allow Him to guide you into a deeper relationship with Him.
May we be people who walk in obedience, who cling to the commandments of our God, and who find our true treasure in Him alone. May His grace and mercy guide us always. Amen.
